Real Madrid 'take James Rodriguez off the market'

James Rodriguez will reportedly be staying with Real Madrid for at least the first half of the 2019-20 campaign after being taken off the market by the Spanish giants.

The Colombia international is back with Madrid after spending the last two seasons on loan at Bayern Munich, who turned down the chance to complete a permanent deal during the summer.

Napoli and Atletico Madrid have been linked with swoops for the playmaker amid suggestions that Los Blancos were keen to sell before the start of September.

However, according to Deportes COPE, Madrid have now decided to keep hold of the 28-year-old, who has scored 36 times in 111 appearances for the capital giants in all competitions.

Gareth Bale, meanwhile, is still with the former European champions despite widespread speculation surrounding the Welshman's future.

Zinedine Zidane's side will be looking to make a positive start to their 2019-20 La Liga campaign when they travel to Celta Vigo on Saturday afternoon.